Just as Jesus was "greater" than Moses back in chapter 3, now we are shown that Jesus is also a greater high priest than all the priests who came before him.
See, all the priests who came before Jesus had limitations. They had to make sacrifices everyday, first for themselves and then for the people (vs 27), and they all eventually died (vs 23). Jesus, on the other hand, has no need for daily sacrifices because he offered himself as a sacrifice once for all (vs 27). And he doesn't have to worry about dying because, having already died and then risen, he now continues living forever and interceding for those who draw near to him (vv 24-25).
Why does this matter to us? Well imagine standing before the throne of God, in all of it's splendor and majesty and glory. What will you offer to God so he will accept you into heaven? The blood of sheep and goats? Your own righteousness?! What is the only acceptable sacrifice we can offer to God for our entrance into heaven? Jesus Christ alone. Nothing else will work. That's why Jesus gave himself for us, and now lives to intercede on our behalf.
So go back to that scene we just imagined: You're standing before God on judgment day, and he says, "What do you bring me that I will grant you entrance into heaven?" Are you going to start muttering something about what a good person you were? Or look around hoping to find something you can offer?
Or... will you be able to smile as Jesus steps forward, and says, "It's okay, Dad, this one's with me."
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